LESSON 31

I am not the victim of the world I see.

1 Today's
idea is the introduction to your declaration of release. Again, the
idea should be applied to both the world you see without and the
world you see within. In applying the idea, we will use a form of
practice which will be used more and more, with changes as indicated.
Generally speaking, the form includes two aspects, one in which you
apply the idea on a more sustained basis, and the other consisting of
frequent applications of the idea throughout the day.

2 Two longer
periods of practice with the idea for today are needed, one in the
morning and one at night. Three to five minutes for each of these are
recommended. During that time, look about you slowly while repeating
the idea two or three times. Then close your eyes, and apply the same
idea to your inner world. You will escape from both together, for the
inner is the cause of the outer.

3 As you
survey your inner world, merely let whatever thoughts cross your mind
come into your awareness, each to be considered for a moment, and
then replaced by the next. Try not to establish any kind of hierarchy
among them. Watch them come and go as dispassionately as possible. Do
not dwell on any one in particular, but try to let the stream move on
evenly and calmly, without any special investment on your part. As
you sit and quietly watch your thoughts, repeat today's idea to
yourself as often as you care to, but with no sense of hurry.

4 In addition,
repeat the idea for today as often as possible during the day. Remind
yourself that you are making a declaration of independence in the
name of your own freedom. And in your freedom lies the freedom of the
world.

5 The idea for
today is also a particularly useful one to use as a response to any
form of temptation that may arise. It is a declaration that you will
not yield to it, and put yourself in bondage.